The recent Basant festival in Lahore, celebrated after a 25-year hiatus, has been marked by a mix of cultural enthusiasm and unfortunate incidents. According to Aaj TV Latest, the festival, which began on February 6, 2026, was overshadowed by a tragic suicide bombing in Islamabad, leading Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to cancel her scheduled Basant activities as a gesture of solidarity. She emphasized the need for unity against terrorism, stating, 'The nation must remain united against external threats.' Despite the somber backdrop, the festival saw a vibrant revival, with Express News reporting that 'Lahore's skies were filled with colorful kites,' and the city's cultural identity was prominently displayed. However, the festival was not without its challenges. Aaj TV Latest and Hum News reported several accidents, including the death of a 25-year-old man, Ali Rashid, who was electrocuted while retrieving a kite, and multiple injuries from kite strings. The government had imposed strict regulations, as noted by Aaj TV Latest, with penalties for violations including fines up to 50 lakh rupees and prison sentences. Despite these measures, the enthusiasm for the festival remained high, with Express News noting that 'flights to Lahore were overbooked,' and the demand for kites and related goods surged, leading to significant price hikes. The festival also attracted international attention, with foreign tourists participating in the celebrations, as reported by Express News, highlighting the cultural significance of Basant as a 'joyous return for the people of Lahore.'